By Leo Udtohan
Of all the places in the world, our holidays are the most anticipated celebration. And what better way to soak in the holiday vibe than some fun at Tagbilaran City General Services Office (GSO).
The annual "Christmas Decoration Contest" at Tagbilaran GSO is the most anticipated event in the city, earning its title as the "Most Christmassy Office" in Bohol.
The decor contest is participated in by the four divisions with the theme: "Paskong Pinoy" which must depict Filipino culture and traditions in celebrating the Yuletide Season.
Chris John Torralba, Ph.D., head of GSO, said the contest intends to encourage the employees in showcasing their creativity and further boost the Christmas spirit in the office.
Each division is filled with all the beauty of being a Filipino. Their interpretation is perfect:
A long time ago in Bethlehem, Jesus Christ was born in a modest manger. The Motorpool Division belen display is as unique as it is meaningful. It has live animals like bantam chickens, a goat and a rabbit. The Motorpool has the replica of St. Joseph the Worker Cathedral-Shrine with a ringing bell. Imagining the faith in a homegrown setting is comforting. And that’s exactly what the creative Motorpool did!
It's barrio fiesta as banderitas greet employees and clients at the Asset Management Office Division. Cubicles are transformed into native huts with paddy field made from drinking straws.
The office displays the face of the Father of Filipino Christmas Songs, Jose Mari Chan.
Cubicles at Supplies and Procurement Division are decorated with banig, a traditional handwoven mat. The personnel show that banig is more than just a sleeping mat; it's a reflection of the Filipino people's resourcefulness and resilience. A giant nativity scene made from recycled materials is an added attraction. And they also have a mini stage for those who want to sing Pinoy Christmas songs.
Christmas in Vigan City can now be felt in the Administrative Office and General Services. The Calle Crisologo with bright lights captured attention becoming a centerpiece in the office. It is magical, as the street lights illuminate the historic buildings, creating a romantic ambiance.
Calle Crisologo is lined with shops full of native handicrafts such as abanikos, our beloved pampaypays, kalesa and empanadas and bagnet and you don't want to miss out.
"The Christmas decors make us happy, it make us feel loved," said Donna Bandija, an employee at Admin office.
Rosalinda Paredes, one of the judges, said the annual tradition shows the dedication and creativity of the personnel.
"The most important thing is the teamwork of the personnel of the General Services Office. They worked together and they also thought about recycling, not necessarily spending money but looking at how to recycle things and show that we can still have a festive Christmas, less money but more creativity when you recycle, " said Ma'am Linda.
The GSO personnel have a knack for making an opportunity out of everything and taking it to a new level. See how they repurposed an everyday item into something so memorable? That’s the magic touch of GSO.
